5.5-22 or 8-32 Nightforce?

[lrdchaos]

I'm currently building a 6.5 creedmoor that will be my 600\1000 yard rifle. I'm looking for a scope for it now. Which optic would you go with? This rifle will be my target rifle only, no hunting.

 

[NateHaler]

I seldom, if ever, hear of somebody wishing they had less magnification. Cheekweld may be simpler if you opt for the 5.5-22x50 vs. the 56mm objective also available, and the 56mm only available in the 8-32, but I vote for the latter if cheekweld works to your satisfaction.

One other possible issue: the smaller objective scope will be a bit lighter than the bigger one. But in the NXS line, both are built like tanks. Their BR (benchrest, aka 'varmint') line will be lighter, but features Adjustable Objective instead of a side parallax adjustment knob.

 

[lrdchaos]

Thanks for the reply. I found a great deal on the 8-32 after I posted this so I bought it. Cheek weld shouldn't be an issue as I'm going with the mcmillan a5 adj stock. I'm not worried about the weight I want this thing to be a tank.

 

[NateHaler]

Congrats on the score. The main reason I mentioned the weight aspect is in case you intend to compete, and thus encounter overall weight limits. For example, in LR benchrest, I think "light gun" has a weight limit of 17 lbs or thereabouts, depending on the governing org (NBRSA vs. Pennsylvania vs. IBS). And the weight limit includes optics.

Good luck with your setup. 8)

 

[Gman]

I seldom, if ever, hear of somebody wishing they had less magnification. Cheekweld may be simpler if you opt for the 5.5-22x50 vs. the 56mm objective also available, and the 56mm only available in the 8-32, but I vote for the latter if cheekweld works to your satisfaction.

One other possible issue: the smaller objective scope will be a bit lighter than the bigger one. But in the NXS line, both are built like tanks. Their BR (benchrest, aka 'varmint') line will be lighter, but features Adjustable Objective instead of a side parallax adjustment knob.

The NF 8-32x 56mm BR series weighs 36 oz, while the 5.5-22x 56mm NXS series weighs 32 oz.

 

[Wildwillalaska]

I have both, actually a couple 8x32 and several 5.5x22's. For a range or f-class rifle I would go hands down with the 8x32. I keep hoping to pick up a used 12-45. Cool thing with the 8's and 12's, you can get them on .125 MOA turrets. Downside is neither have as much travel as the 5.5 which makes it such a great combination of magnification and elevation capabilities for extended long range.

You'll love the 8x32 NXS.

 

[Romulus]

It all depends on your purposes and speed requirements, if you're a strict dialer or a reticle shooter. If you're a speed shooter the 22x is more handy for rapid kills, but I like my 32x and 42x just fine.

 

[majohnson]

I have the 5.5-22x56 its a great scope, glass is clear but there are times on the 1000 range I would give anything for some extra magnification. Even using different dot to cover hits, its hard to see where you have hit. The problem that come with the increase magnification comes mirage. The people I have spoken with will run it up to see the hits and read the mirage, then dial it back down to shot.